On March 26, 2025, the nationwide informational campaign “Business Enlightenment Caravan” continued its work in the city of Osh. The event took place at Osh State University and brought together entrepreneurs, government officials, and experts.

The campaign aims to clarify changes in legislation, new requirements in tax and labor regulations, and inform the business community about available support measures for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), tourism development opportunities, and public-private partnership tools.

The event opened with welcoming remarks from representatives of the JIA Business Association, the Secretariat of the Investment Council under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic, the Plenipotentiary Representative of the President in Osh region, the State Tax Service, and the General Prosecutor’s Office.

During the first part of the program, participants were briefed on the latest changes in business regulation, including the updated Labor Code, mechanisms for mandatory insurance, and procedures for inspections conducted by supervisory authorities. Topics such as licensing, the role of the Prosecutor’s Office in protecting entrepreneurs’ rights, and the nuances of tax reporting were also discussed.

Participants raised concerns about improving access to insurance payments. One entrepreneur voiced a proposal to “simplify the process of receiving insurance compensation just as the process of making payments is simple.” In response, it was explained that insurance payouts are guaranteed if a complete set of documents is submitted.

Numerous questions were asked regarding the application of the unified tax, submission of “zero” reports, and taxation in the service and trade sectors. Representatives of the State Tax Service reported that they are considering canceling the 4% rate for cash transactions while keeping a 2% rate regardless of the payment method. It was also clarified that “if there is no activity, a ‘zero’ report is not required, but any changes must be followed by a clarification report.”

Other issues included the use of ETTN (Electronic Consignment Note), hiring practices in the sewing industry, and challenges of working with suppliers who lack proper documentation. Participants were advised to “avoid doing business with farmers who cannot provide an invoice, even if they are exempt from taxes.”

The tourism panel session focused on financing mechanisms. A representative of “Rayan Resort Sary-Oy” shared a practical tip: “We started small – we rented land for one year and set up yurts, while simultaneously applying for long-term permits. You can start your business without waiting for permanent land rights.” There was also a proposal to organize a separate meeting with tourism business representatives to explore ways to promote Osh’s unique tourism potential.

The second part of the event highlighted the role of local self-government bodies in supporting entrepreneurship and implementing development projects. A dedicated session addressed tourism development with a regional perspective. Government officials explained how entrepreneurs can access financing through regional development funds and outlined current SME support programs.

Representatives of the business community expressed a strong interest in launching the Regional Investment Council in Osh region. They view it as an essential platform for addressing local business issues and attracting investment, and they eagerly await the formation and operation of its secretariat.

In parallel with the panel discussions, entrepreneurs had the opportunity to receive individual consultations in designated areas set up in the venue’s lobby. These consultation zones included representatives from development funds, state banks, and insurance companies.

The event’s format – expert presentations, Q&A sessions, and one-on-one meetings – enabled participants to gain clarity on recent legislative changes and highlight the real challenges faced by local businesses.

The upcoming stops of the Caravan are: Batken – March 27, Naryn – April 1, Karakol – April 3, Talas – April 8, Tokmok – April 10, Kara-Balta – April 15, and Bishkek – April 16.

The campaign is organized by the JIA Business Association and the Secretariat of the Investment Council under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic, with the support of the Plenipotentiary Representatives of the President in the regions, the Ministry of Economy and Commerce, the General Prosecutor’s Office, the Ministry of Labor, Social Security and Migration, the State Tax Service under the Ministry of Finance, the Center for Public-Private Partnership under NAIA, the Department of Tourism under the Ministry of Economy and Commerce, the Land and Water Oversight Service under the Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture and Processing Industry, the EBRD, the OSCE Program Office, UNDP, and the Center for Business Support.

On March 25, 2025, the nationwide informational campaign "Business Enlightenment Caravan" commenced in the city of Jalal-Abad. The initiative aims to provide entrepreneurs and citizens with practical information regarding legislative changes, business support measures, new requirements in labor relations, tax reporting, and prospects for tourism development in the regions.

The event opened with welcoming remarks from representatives of the JIA Business Association, the Secretariat of the Investment Council under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic, the regional administration, as well as heads of relevant agencies—the Ministry of Economy and Commerce, the State Tax Service, the Ministry of Labor, and the General Prosecutor's Office.

In the first part of the program, participants were presented with information on innovations in business regulation and inspections, introduced to changes in tax legislation, and informed about opportunities for legalizing inventory balances. Particular attention was given to clarifications on electronic document management, transactions via personal electronic wallets, and the transition to a cashless system. Participants inquired, for example, whether a transfer of funds from a store to a distributor's personal wallet is considered cashless, and how to handle inventory in warehouses lacking primary documentation. Representatives of competent authorities provided appropriate explanations regarding permissible schemes and potential risks.

Additionally, norms regarding the cancellation of fines for non-submission of zero reports were clarified. Representatives of the State Tax Service provided detailed information on the periods during which this norm applies and the principle of voluntary submission of zero reports. It was specified that the cancellation of fines for missing deadlines and the possibility of voluntary submission will simplify the liquidation procedures for legal entities.

Labor legislation issues garnered no less interest. Participants sought clarifications on the registration of foreign workers and challenges associated with cashless wage payments. There were also inquiries concerning employers' obligations to insure employees and conclude relevant contracts. Competent answers were provided to all questions.

In the second part of the program, information was presented on the development of regional tourism, using the Aksy district as an example, including destinations such as Padysh-Ata and Sary-Chelek. The focus was on sustainable development of popular locations, including improving infrastructure and establishing constructive dialogue between authorities and businesses. A proposal was voiced in the hall to hold such events at the district level as well.

Parallel to the panel sessions, entrepreneurs could receive individual consultations in the theater's foyer. Consultation zones were organized with representatives from development funds, state banks, and insurance companies.

The event format included expert presentations, Q&A sessions, and individual meetings. This approach allowed not only for explanations of current legislative changes but also for highlighting real challenges faced by business representatives on the ground.

The next stops of the Caravan: Osh — March 26, Batken — March 27, Naryn — April 1, Karakol — April 3, Talas — April 8, Tokmok — April 10, Kara-Balta — April 15, Bishkek — April 16.

The campaign is being implemented by the JIA Business Association and the Secretariat of the Investment Council under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic, with the support of the plenipotentiary representatives of the President of the Kyrgyz Republic in the regions, the Ministry of Economy and Commerce of the Kyrgyz Republic, the Ministry of Labor, Social Security and Migration of the Kyrgyz Republic, the Ministry of Finance of the Kyrgyz Republic, the State Tax Service under the Ministry of Finance of the Kyrgyz Republic, the General Prosecutor's Office of the Kyrgyz Republic, the Center for Public-Private Partnership under the Ministry of Economy and Commerce of the Kyrgyz Republic, the Department of Tourism under the Ministry of Culture, Information, Sports and Youth Policy of the Kyrgyz Republic, the Program Office of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, the United Nations Development Programme, the Center for Entrepreneur Support, EBRD and other partners.

The Investment Council Secretariat expert, Cholpon Asakeeva, and JIA Business Association expert, Bakytbek Sartmametov, were guests on the "Utro Live" program on NTS, where they shared insights about the upcoming event.

A reminder that next week marks the launch of the Business Enlightenment Caravan. This initiative will help entrepreneurs and business representatives understand the latest requirements in tax and labor legislation, state and local policies for business support, and tourism development opportunities in the regions.

The Caravan will host panel discussions, interactive Q&A sessions, and individual consultations with representatives from key government agencies and industry experts. Topics covered include:

• Tax legislation updates – new tax rates, incentives, reporting requirements, and compliance measures.
• Labor Code amendments – employment contracts, workers’ rights, and updated labor conditions.
• Prosecutorial oversight – business rights protection and dispute resolution between employers and employees.
• State support measures for entrepreneurs and investors.
• Local government strategies to improve the business environment.
• New tourism opportunities and regional development initiatives.

By fostering direct dialogue between businesses and government representatives, the Caravan aims to increase legal literacy among entrepreneurs, minimize regulatory compliance risks, and strengthen trust between the private sector and government institutions.

Caravan Schedule:

• Jalal-Abad – March 25
• Osh – March 26
• Batken – March 27
• Naryn – April 1
• Karakol – April 3
• Talas – April 8
• Tokmok – April 10
• Kara-Balta – April 15
• Bishkek – April 16

The initiative is jointly organized by the Business Association JIA and the Investment Council Secretariat under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic, with the support of regional Presidential Representatives, the Ministry of Economy and Commerce, the General Prosecutor’s Office, the Ministry of Labor, Social Security and Migration, the State Tax Service, the PPP Center under NAIC, the Tourism Department, the Land and Water Supervision Service, the OSCE Program Office, UNDP Kyrgyzstan and the Business Support Center.

The broadcast is available at the following link

The Secretariat of the Investment Council under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic announces the recruitment of experts to support the activities of Regional Investment Councils (RICs) across various regions.

Open Positions:

• (5) Head of the RIC Secretariat – managing the secretariat’s work, liaising with government agencies and the business community, organizing meetings, and monitoring the investment climate.
• (5) Legal Expert – analyzing and monitoring legislation related to business and investments, providing legal support for investment projects, and consulting businesses and government agencies on regulatory issues.
• (5) Economist / Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Expert – analyzing the investment climate, developing economic initiatives, and supporting investment and PPP projects.

Locations:
Jalal-Abad, Issyk-Kul, Naryn, Osh, and Talas regions.

Application deadline: March 24, 2025.

Employment Conditions:

• Full-time employment (9-month contract).
• Opportunity to contribute to improving the investment climate in the regions.
• Competitive salary.
• Access to professional development and training.

How to Apply?
Submit your CV and a motivation letter (maximum one page) to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  Please indicate the position and region in the subject line of your email.

More information about the vacancies: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ryfzef-jVB5WajY0a2nu0s0hSJV8oZ0T?usp=sharing

For inquiries, contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Join our team and contribute to the development of the investment climate in the Kyrgyz Republic!